2 Story Modern ADU in Pacific Beach with Metal Shed Roof
Law Street, San Diego, CA 92109
Homeowner Story: Flex space
Other Features: Deck, Covered porch
Special Circumstance: Coastal Zone
Video TourLooking for inspiration for a modern accessory dwelling unit (ADU)? Our project in Pacific Beach, San Diego, offers an incredible example of sleek, functional design. This 2 story modern ADU features a stunning metal shed roof that enhances both aesthetics and durability. The innovative layout offers versatile spaces with a mix of finished and semi-finished areas, ensuring flexibility for a variety of uses. This property is also in the coastal zone.
Modern ADU Design That Blends with the Main Property
The modern ADU design exterior boasts clean lines, a modern shed roof, and neutral color tones that complement the main residence. The horizontal railings of the external staircase and the black French doors add contemporary elegance while maintaining a cohesive look with the property. This project perfectly demonstrates how a detached ADU can enhance the character of the main property, whether the goal is visual distinction or integration.
On the first floor, the ADU offers a flexible semi-finished storage space. This is a good solution for homeowners who need extra storage and may consider expansion options down the road. The second story is accessible through an external staircase, complete with a sleek horizontal railing that lends a modern, minimalist touch. Clerestory windows bring in abundant natural light. This illuminates the kitchen and living area and creating an open, airy atmosphere that promotes a sense of spaciousness.
Learn more about 2 story ADUs.
Modern ADU Costs: Setting Expectations
Building a modern ADU like this one comes with specific considerations when it comes to costs. Custom features like the metal shed roof and large kitchen contribute to the overall investment. Read about ADU costs.
This particular ADU was delivered as a shell option with a partially unfinished first floor. A semi-finished approach allows homeowners to decide how and when to complete the space, offering cost savings upfront while preserving future customization options. Read about our shell ADU options.
Explore More ADU Possibilities
Whether you’re in the initial stages of planning or actively considering an ADU project, this two story modern ADU serves as a fantastic example of what’s possible. It showcases the benefits of opting for modern exteriors while thoughtfully blending in with the existing property, or standing apart as a unique statement piece. If you’re intrigued by our approach to modern ADU costs and design flexibility, explore our other projects and discover how we can bring your vision to life.
Floor Plan:
Custom ADU Floor Plan
Community:
The City of San Diego ADU Guide
With more than 70 ADU projects completed or in progress throughout the City of San Diego, we’ve seen firsthand how the city’s regulations create opportunities that are not available in many other jurisdictions.
One of the biggest differentiators is San Diego’s Affordable ADU Bonus Program, which allows qualifying properties to add multiple ADUs when some units are rented at affordable rates. This has made San Diego a leader in ADU development and has opened the door for homeowners and investors to create additional housing beyond what is typically allowed under state law.
In 2025, the city became the first jurisdiction in San Diego County to adopt AB1033, allowing qualifying ADUs to be sold separately from the primary residence. As of June 2026, only the County of San Diego and the City of San Diego have adopted AB1033.
San Diego also offers significant flexibility in the types of ADUs that can be built. The city allows two-story ADUs, ADUs with garages, ADUs with guest quarters, ADUs with rooftop decks, front yard ADUs, and stacked ADUs for multi-unit projects. We’ve worked on all of these project types throughout the city.
Another unique aspect of San Diego is its setback regulations. Many single-story ADUs can be built with 0-foot side and rear setbacks, creating opportunities on properties where space is limited. However, building too close to property lines can trigger additional fire-rating requirements and construction challenges, which is why thoughtful site planning remains critical even when the regulations appear flexible.
San Diego ADU Permitting
Most ADU permits in the City of San Diego are approved within approximately 3 to 5 months after submission, although timelines vary depending on project complexity and city workload.
Compared to many other jurisdictions in San Diego County, the City of San Diego has some of the highest ADU permit fees. Permit costs often range from approximately $26-$28 per square foot, though smaller ADUs under 500 square feet can benefit from reduced fees closer to $14 per square foot. We maintain a detailed breakdown of City of San Diego permit fees, including plan check fees, building permit fees, impact fees, and inspection fees, in our ADU permit fee guide.
Approximately 10% of our City of San Diego projects are located within the Coastal Zone. While coastal properties often raise concerns for homeowners, many ADUs qualify for exemptions from Coastal Development Permit requirements under the City’s updated Local Coastal Program. Learn more about building an ADU in the Coastal Zone.
Working with an experienced ADU builder helps identify potential permitting requirements early and creates a more predictable path through design and permitting.
